Every year, on the fourth Thursday in April, companies and communities across the country celebrate Take Our Daughters to Work Day. Here's a closer look at what's happening to help our nation's daughters stay strong, healthy and focused on their futures.

Music can have a powerful impact on children—some studies show that math, verbal and spatial IQ abilities benefit from exposure to music. But more than that, music helps children learn to express themselves and their emotions. In our monthly column, Nick Geisinger explores the mystery and value of music.

Original, from the CFK Archives. The 2000 presidential candidates haven't had much to say about child care issues. Richard B. Stolley, who looks at these things through the lens of his dual experience as a journalist and as chairman of the board of directors of the Child Care Action Campaign, thinks they are making a mistake. Find out why.

Betsy McAlister Groves directs the Child Witness to Violence project at Boston Medical Center, which serves young children who have seen or heard acts of violence, particularly in their families. Caitlin Johnson spoke with her about how kids are affected—and what it takes to help them recover.

"The principal's office." In childhood, those three words alone could make your palms sweat and your heart race. But for parents and others concerned with improving schools, principals can be among our best allies. So get over your fears: this weekend, the National Principals' Hotline is giving adults and students a chance to talk with elementary school principals. Connect for Kids can help you get prepared.

When a young boy found himself in a strange land, where his words meant nothing, he found a way to bear the change with help from his imagination—and his dog. And he reminded his parents that helping children through the rough patches requires listening to them. Managing editor Susan Phillips explains.

The federal case is called "Elian Gonzalez v. Janet Reno," but although it bears his name, Elian, like the vast majority of children caught up in custody disputes, has no inherent right to attorney to represent his interests. And making him a U.S. citizen would not change that.

Parents who remember lazy summer afternoons at the swimming hole, or evening games of kick-the-can, are often dismayed when they consider the scheduled, plugged-in lives of their own children. Senior Editor Richard Louv says we must work to bring children closer to nature.

From seeking support from others in her community, to enjoying the unique progress of her 8-year old daughter, Caroline, Theresa Kelly Darr shares her experiences and advice on parenting special needs children.

What's it like for a family when one of you is developmentally different? Caitlin Johnson looks at one family's struggle, and how supportive schools and neighborhoods can make all the difference.